Reconversion: A Dialogue

Reconversion: A Dialogue

Using individuals for one’s own idealistic or religious agenda constitutes a crime against humanity. Some people may fail to live out their ideals in their personal lives but still expect others to adhere to them. I wish that those who work to bring people back to their religious communities would address the tangible needs that prompted these individuals to change their religious allegiance in the first place. Conversion and reconversion, as seen in recent incidents such as the return of 150 converted Christians to Hinduism in Himachal Pradesh, may fulfill certain religious or political agendas, but true commitment to these ideals is demonstrated through active participation in the daily struggles of individuals. It is often said: “No one ever lived above his creed.”

— Bharati 

March 11, 1:00 am 

2007

Comment by Cricket Lover

As a Hindu, I am strongly opposed to the conversions occurring in rural areas and villages in India. I recently came across a video (though I have lost the link) that highlighted how these conversions are carried out. It struck me how vulnerable our mindset is if people are converting to other religions merely for financial gain. Is money truly a priority over the enduring ideals and teachings that have been passed down through the centuries?

It is heartening to see a blog dedicated to Hinduism from a learned and enlightened perspective. I also post Hindu verses on my personal blog at [Intellectual Hinduism](http://intellectualhinduism.blogspot.com/). It is time to rise and address these issues. Thanks for your views.

Although we often use the term ‘priority,’ I believe that prioritizing one aspect of life over another is impractical. Life cannot be divided into watertight compartments (such as spiritual, social, religious, secular, etc.). To me, ‘priority’ means giving immediate attention to what demands our time. Therefore, emphasizing our ideals and teachings above all else can be unrealistic. Idealism often reflects our longing for perfection. If we cling to our idealistic views without addressing practical needs, the practice of conversion and other such activities will continue as we ignore the core issues driving people to sell themselves for any price. Our intellectual idealism can become mere idle philosophy for those struggling to survive.

While I share your disapproval of conversions for material gain, I also feel sympathy for those who have compromised their personal convictions. Those who have sold their beliefs for money or material gain will eventually become a burden to those who have purchased them. The need to continually meet material expectations will eventually exhaust their resources. Such conversions often lead to a cycle of dependence and exploitation, much like holding onto a tiger’s tail—both parties are trapped in a relentless struggle.

Therefore, we need not be overly concerned about these disgraceful activities, as they are unlikely to endure for long.

— Db 

Gurukulam, May 24, 2009